MA Social Research at Manchester Metropolitan University

Programme overview

This masters degree combines core modules in research approaches and methods with options modules from the subject specialisms, education, childhood and youth and social work. Our MA Social Research degree is accredited by the Economic and Social Research Council’s (ESRC’s) White Rose Doctoral Training Partnership. Applicants are therefore eligible to apply for 1+3.5 studentships to fund their MA and subsequent PhD. +3.75 integrated PGCert/PhD studentships are also available (see wrdtp.ac.uk for details).

What you will study

You’ll study core modules to gain a broad skillset in research methods across the social sciences. You’ll get a grounding in the basics of both quantitative and qualitative methods, and explore theories such as critical realism, feminist paradigms, and post-humanist research. Year 1 core: Contemporary Issues in Social Research, Principles and Debates in Social Research, Introduction to Qualitative Research, Introduction to Quantitative Research, Professional Skills for Researchers, Disciplinarities: Re-searching Beyond Boundaries, Independent Research Project. Year 2 options: Further Qualitative Methods, Further Quantitative Methods.

Career pathways

The course is ideal preparation for PhD study, as a route to a research career, either in academia or in other sectors such as government or research consultancies. Alternatively, the course equips students for entry level positions requiring social research skills, in the public, private or third sectors.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

You’ll need to have a 2:2 UK Honours degree, or an alternative postgraduate or professional qualification recognised as being equivalent to a 2:2 UK Honours degree. Other qualifications or experience may be acceptable if you are able to demonstrate appropriate knowledge and skills to a UK Honours degree standard. Eligible applicants will be invited to attend an online or in-person interview with the programme lead (or their nominated representative) as part of the admissions process. Language requirements. Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.

Intake: September 2027

Duration: Full-time: one year; Part-time: two years

Apply through the official page: https://www.mmu.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/course/ma-social-research#how-to-apply

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